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Building Technology Career Options and Requirements

A career in building technology covers a vast array of exciting career options that touch every component of your daily life. Our road systems, bridges, parks, and the building you are in right now were all designed, built, and maintained by a host of people in the building technology sector. As the building technology sectors involves many different skills and areas, there are opportunities for individuals of all education levels. From those who enjoy building and finishing projects with their hands, to working in an office designing architectural wonders, there is an area of building technology careers for you.

Construction workers are one of the most misunderstood professions; for within this field are several divisions of specialization. Beyond building foundations, installing fixtures, and laying bricks, this area includes elevator installers, heating and air-conditioning, and pool installers. The sheer quantities of available areas of specialization permit you to choose an area that best fits your interests.

To begin a career in any of these subfields, most workers obtain expertise certification from trade schools or community colleges. Depending on the particular subfield you select, the curriculum of your program will vary to prepare you for your career. Most of the technical courses are approximately yearlong; however, additional “on the job” or apprenticeship experience may be required or desired.

The construction labor occupation is expected to see significant growth throughout the remainder of the decade and beyond. Indeed, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicted that this area will see a 24% growth rate from 2012 to 2022. The average salary for all construction laborers is 35,750. However, within each field of specialization, the average salary will vary.

Architect: The Dreamers

Architects are an occupation that is both prestigious and has a high earning potential. It involves the mastery of engineering and construction skills and the artistic mind to create pleasing and functional buildings. Architects must take into consideration budgets, building materials, ordinances, local topography, and time considerations into each project.

While every state has its own unique qualifications for a person to be an architect, there are requirements common to all states. To become an architect, a prospective architect must earn a degree in architecture. This program, typically five years in length, must also be accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board. This board sets certain qualifications all programs must meet. Afterward, graduates must complete training programs created by the state architectural board or internships. These programs require an additional three years of study. After these requirements are completed, the student may then sit for the Architects Registration Examination.

Similar to construction laborers, architects are predicted to see employment growth rates throughout the decade. The average salary for architects in 2014 was 80,490.

Civil Engineers: The Practical Application

Civil Engineers, who often design public works, combine the practical and creative elements of construction labors and architects. Civil Engineers have many different specialties, including geotechnical, hydraulic, structural, and engineers. Nearly all new civil engineers obtain a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. Many of the courses offered focus on practical structural and constructive materials and designing principles. Like architects, civil engineers must also obtain additional certifications beyond a college degree. Civil Engineers earn their architectural service licenses via state licensing boards. Typically, engineers must also pass an Initial Fundamentals of Engineering Exam and work as engineers in training before taking a Final Principles and Practices of Engineering Exam to obtain your license.

Just like construction laborers, architects are also projected to see an increase in employment possibilities of 20 percent through the end of this decade and beyond. The average salary for civil engineers is 87,130; however, salary will vary depending on experience and specialization.

So, no matter where your interests and skills may lay, there is a career in building technology for you to pursue. Further, all three areas have great job growth projects and allow you to be part of building something that will last for generations.

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